How To Serve Butternut Squash for Baby Led Weaning

How To Serve Butternut Squash For Baby Led Weaning

Here are some BLW-friendly ways to offer butternut squash and other winter squash, regardless of cooking method. Squash should always be cooked to a soft texture that baby can easily mash between his gums, and be free of skin and seeds.

1. Sticks or Half Moons (6+ months)

Long pieces of well cooked butternut squash are easier for little eaters to pick up and bring to their mouths before developing the pincer grasp. You can cut squash into sticks about the length of your finger, or into half moons following the natural curves of the squash.

2. Mashed (6+ months)

Mash well-cooked butternut squash and offer in a bowl or plate with a rim, or pre-load a soft spoon and place on the tray for baby to practice with utensils.

3. Cubes (9+ months)

Once baby has developed a pincer grasp, usually around 9 months of age, you can offer soft cooked butternut squash in small cubes about the size of your pinky nail.

4. In a soup or sauce (6+ months)

Butternut squash is used in many delicious pasta sauces and pureed soups, many of which are great for BLW babies! Let baby eat pasta (in an appropriate shape!) with his hands and preload soups onto a soft spoon or let baby dip toast fingers into it.

How To Cut Butternut Squash

While some people use a vegetable peeler to peel the though skin from butternut squash, I find it easier to use a sharp knife to cut it away.

1. First, cut the stem end from the squash, then cut the squash in half down the middle, separating the bulb end from the straight end so you have a flat surface. Set the straight end on the flat end on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut the skin away from top to bottom.
2. Cut the bulbous end in half vertically so that you can scoop the seeds out with a spoon, then repeat the process of cutting away the skin.
3. Once the skin is peeled away, you can cut the squash into half moons, sticks, or cubes!

Note: If you're going to be mashing the squash, you can save yourself some work by simply cutting the squash in half and roasting the halves. Then scoop the flesh from the skin once it's cooked.

Best Ways to Prepare Butternut Squash for Babies

Butternut squash can be prepared so many ways! Here are some appropriate ways to cook butternut squash for babies. Be sure to cut the squash into the shape you need prior to cooking or once it is done.

1. Boiled or Steamed

Place cubes or sticks of butternut squash in a saucepan and cover with water. Boil until tender, about 10 minutes.

To steam, place cubes or sticks in a steamer basket with water underneath. Cover and steam until tender, about 10 minutes.

2. Roasted (Cubes, Half Moons, or Sticks)

Peel and cut butternut squash into the desired shape. Toss with a bit of olive oil, avocado oil or melted coconut oil and any seasonings you like. Roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, or until squash is tender.

3. Roasted (Halved)

Save yourself some peeling with this easy method! Cut the squash down the center vertically and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle or brush the flesh with oil and place cut side down on a baking sheet (use parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup!). Roast in the oven at 400°F for 30-45 minutes or until tender. Once cooked and cooled to the touch, you can scoop out the flesh with a spoon and mash it, or peel the skin away and slice squash into the desired shape.

Flavor Pairings: You can season squash however you'd like, avoiding added sugars and honey. Some favorites include cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a sweeter flavor, or for more savory flavors, try garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, or chili powder.